Why dental sealants are highly recommended by pediatric dentists
Our pediatric dental team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Mission Viejo, California, knows that dental sealants can play an essential role in keeping children’s teeth healthy.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are applied by the doctor to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, where most cavities form. A thin coating is painted onto the tooth and hardened with a special curing light. This creates a shield against food particles and bacteria from getting lodged into small crevices on the teeth and causing decay or other damage. Children of all ages, including adults, will benefit from this proactive approach to caring for their smiles.
Studies have shown that sealant applications can reduce cavities dramatically for up to two years after their initial application. They may even provide long-term protection if properly maintained. Dental sealants are especially beneficial for young children prone to developing cavities due to their limited ability to brush their own teeth effectively. Our dentists will often recommend the application of a dental sealant in the youngest of patients to take one extra step against disease and decay.
Should my child have a dental sealant placed?
Sealants for teeth are a great idea for any age! We encourage you as the parent to make an informed decision on the best way to proceed in protecting your child’s smile from common dental problems. We welcome you to ask about this and other preventative care solutions that can be used to your child’s advantage.
How do I learn more about dental sealants?
Dental sealants are just one of many services provided by our team to protect your child’s smile from disease and decay. If you reside in or around Mission Viejo, CA, and want to speak to Drs. John De Lorme, Sam Wu, and the South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics team about the benefits of cavity sealants for teeth. Call (949) 581 5800 to request an appointment. The office is at 26302 La Paz Road, Suite #114, and is open to new patients and families in the community and surrounding areas.
Dental Sealants FAQs
How do dental sealants protect my child’s teeth?
Dental sealants create a thin, protective barrier over the deep grooves of molars and premolars, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting trapped. These grooves are difficult to clean, even with thorough brushing, making them more susceptible to cavities. By sealing these areas, sealants significantly reduce the risk of decay and provide long-lasting protection, helping your child maintain strong, healthy teeth with minimal additional effort.
At what age should my child get dental sealants?
Sealants are most effective when a child’s permanent molars and premolars emerge, typically between ages six and twelve. Applying them early helps protect these teeth from cavities right from the start. However, younger children with deep grooves in their baby teeth may also benefit. Dr. De Lorme can assess whether sealants are the right preventive measure for your child’s dental needs.
Are dental sealants noticeable on teeth?
Dental sealants are clear or slightly tinted to blend naturally with teeth. They are not visible when your child smiles or speaks. The material is smooth and thin, so children typically don’t notice them once applied. Since they provide an invisible shield against cavities, sealants are an excellent way to protect teeth without altering their appearance or interfering with daily oral hygiene routines.
What is the lifetime of a dental sealant?
With proper care, dental sealants can last five to ten years. They are durable but may wear down over time due to chewing and grinding. During regular checkups, Dr. De Lorme will assess the condition of your child’s sealants and reapply them if necessary. Even though they provide long-term protection, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits remain essential for cavity prevention.
Can my child eat normally after getting sealants?
Yes! Your child can eat and drink as usual immediately after the sealant application. However, avoiding sticky, hard, or chewy foods for the first twenty-four hours is best to allow the sealants to set fully. While sealants are strong, excessive force from biting on ice, hard candies, or chewing pencils can cause them to wear down faster, so it’s best to encourage good eating habits.
Do dental sealants replace the need for brushing and flossing?
No, sealants are an added layer of protection but do not replace daily brushing and flossing. While they shield the chewing surfaces of molars from decay, they do not protect between teeth or along the gumline. Your child should still brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and maintain regular dental visits to keep their mouth healthy and cavity-free.
Will my insurance cover dental sealants for my child?
Sealants for kids are often covered by dental insurance policies since they are a proven way of preventing cavities. Coverage typically applies to sealants placed on permanent molars in children under a certain age, usually up to fourteen. Dr. De Lorme’s team can help check your insurance benefits and determine available coverage, ensuring your child receives the best preventive care with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
